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- East Coast ports brace for possible strike by dockworkers (newsbreak.com)
Strike Looming at Major US Ports
Authorities are preparing for a potential strike by dockworkers at ports along the East Coast and Gulf Coast. The International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA) has threatened to strike if a new labor agreement is not reached by October 1st.
The strike could affect 45,000 workers at ports that handle 60% of US shipping traffic, causing major disruptions to supply chains. The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey is coordinating with partners to mitigate the impact, as $240 billion in goods pass through its ports annually.
The ILA is demanding wage increases and protection from automation. The United States Maritime Alliance (USMX), representing port terminal and shipping companies, says it is disappointed and has been unable to schedule new bargaining sessions.
The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey warns that a strike would halt all cargo and automobile loading and unloading, but cruise ships would continue to operate. Authorities are working to unload as many ships as possible before the deadline.
If a strike occurs, container ships carrying imports will be held in designated areas or at sea until the strike ends. The Coast Guard and Customs and Border Protection will oversee the arrival of ships once the strike is over.
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- East Coast ports brace for possible strike by dockworkers (newsbreak.com)